The format of the councillor ballot paper will vary depending on the type of election and whether candidates have formed into groups.

Direction for voting

The directions for voting are printed on the ballot papers and will specify the number of preferences required for a formal vote.

Printing

All ballot papers for all elections are printed by a printer contracted by us. This ensures security control in the printing process and consistent format and high quality production.

Candidates’ names on ballot paper

A candidate’s surname and one given name will be printed on the ballot paper. The surname will appear as it is on the electoral roll.

The candidate’s given name as it appears on the electoral roll will be printed unless they have chosen to use a recognisedabbreviation, contraction or derivative of one of their given names. For example, Tom or Tommy for Thomas; Jack for John; Peggy for Margaret and Bert for Albert.

A nickname is not permitted even though a candidate may be well known by that nickname. No titles such as Dr or JP are permitted.

Party affiliation or ‘Independent’ on ballot paper

Candidates nominated by RPPs will have the registered name of the party (or its registered abbreviation) printed on the ballot paper below their name.

Candidates not endorsed by an RPP may request either to have or not to have the word ‘Independent’ printed below their name on the ballot paper.